Wyclef Jean bows out of Haiti election race

Wyclef Jean has reportedly decided to drop out of the Haiti presidential election race.

The singer-songwriter confirmed in a statement that he is no longer seeking the office of president for his native country, reports Us Weekly.

"This was not an easy conclusion to reach; but it is one that was thoughtfully made, taking into account many, many competing factors and weighing the course that will best advance the healing of the country and help it find the quickest path to recovery," the 40-year-old said.

Jean announced his candidacy in August after the devastating earthquake that left the country in shambles and many dead.

However, Haiti's Provincial Electoral Council disqualified the singer because he did not reside in the country for at least five years prior to his candidacy. Jean has lived in New Jersey for the past several years.

He added: "Some battles are best fought off the field, and that is where we take this now.

"It's not about my candidacy - this appeal was meant to address the shortcomings of the process for every Haitian. Though my run for the presidency was cut short, in this way, I feel it was not in vain; it's something we can use to improve conditions for my Haitian brothers and sisters."